Turmeric golden paste is a time-honored remedy for pain and inflammation. Easy to make at home with just a few pantry ingredients, this golden turmeric paste can be applied topically or added to food, and is commonly used for both people and pets seeking natural, soothing relief.
This simple golden turmeric paste recipe uses only four ingredients—turmeric, water, black pepper and coconut oil—so everything is easy to find at most grocery stores. The paste cooks down to a thick, spreadable consistency and stores well in glass jars.
Uses for Golden Turmeric Paste
Traditionally, golden turmeric paste has been used to ease soreness, aches and inflammation. Many people apply it to stiff joints or areas of tension, and others, including pet owners, mix a small amount into food to support comfort and overall well-being. Turmeric has a long history of use in India for inflammation, digestive support and topical care, and black pepper is included to help with absorption.
We use this golden turmeric paste with our dogs: one has arthritis and another has mobility challenges, and both have responded well when a small amount is added to their meals. For pets, stir the paste into food and add a little water to make a gravy if desired; many dogs enjoy the texture and flavor when mixed with their regular meals.
Variations and Tips
There are few meaningful variations if you want to keep the traditional benefits. You can experiment with different oils, but coconut oil sets up differently than olive oil and affects texture. If you prefer a thinner paste, increase the water—some people use up to 2 cups for a more fluid consistency. For a thicker paste, begin with about 1.5 cups of water and add small amounts as you cook until you reach the desired thickness.
Do not skip the black pepper—it’s an important component that helps the body make use of turmeric. Use a stainless steel saucepan and a metal whisk if possible; turmeric stains plastic and wooden utensils easily. For storage, glass jars are best: two 8-ounce jars or one 16-ounce jar work well.
Make It a Meal
This versatile golden turmeric paste can be stirred into soups, added to pasta dishes, or used as a marinade on meats. It pairs especially well with vegetable soups and broths—try adding a spoonful to carrot-based soups or other healing-style recipes for extra color and depth.
How to Store Turmeric Golden Paste
Store the golden turmeric paste covered in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you use it often, double the recipe; if you use it rarely, halve it. Because turmeric is a strong dye, glass storage prevents staining and protects utensils and containers. Allow the paste to cool completely before sealing jars.
Golden Turmeric Paste Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup turmeric powder
- 1.5 cups water (start with 1.5 cups; add up to 2 cups for a thinner paste)
- 1.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 3 TB coconut oil
Directions
- Measure the water and turmeric into a saucepan and whisk to combine.
- Heat over low to medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Cook until the mixture reaches a peanut-butter-like consistency, adding small amounts of water as needed to control thickness.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the black pepper and coconut oil until fully incorporated.
- Use a spatula to transfer the paste into glass storage jars, scraping the pan clean.
- Allow the jars to cool before sealing and refrigerating.
Recipe Notes
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Suggested portion: 1 teaspoon for adults or large dogs; 1/2 teaspoon for teens and smaller dogs. Adjust according to your needs and professional advice.
- Add to food or drinks, or use topically as part of a care routine. Avoid contact with delicate fabrics—turmeric will stain.
- As with any traditional remedy or supplement, consult your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or treating a pet with health concerns.
Approximate Nutritional Information
Servings per recipe: about 64. Amount per serving (approximate): Calories 9, Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 g, Sodium 0 mg, Carbohydrates 0.5 g, Protein 0 g. Values will vary slightly depending on specific ingredient brands and measurements.
Please remember these nutrition values are approximate and intended as a general guide.
If you tried this golden turmeric paste or one of the recipes on this site, feedback is welcome—share a photo or a note to let us know how it turned out.
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